Gulfstream, Rolls-Royce fly first business jet on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Gulfstream has become the first business aircraft manufacturer to fly a business jet using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The Rolls-Royce BR725 powered Gulfstream G650 flew from Gulfstream’s headquarters in Savannah.

The SAF was provided by World Energy and Virent. World Energy made it in Paramount, California from HEFA – fats and oils. Virent used plant-based sugars as feedstock.

“At Gulfstream, leading our industry closer to decarbonization is a long-standing priority, and testing, evaluating and promoting new developments in SAF takes us another step closer to that goal,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We are grateful for our partnership with Rolls-Royce to be able to demonstrate yet another milestone in these efforts.”

“Gulfstream has long prioritized sustainable products and practices through innovations in aerodynamics, aircraft technologies, engineering, manufacturing and infrastructure, as well as in facilities operations and our investments in SAF research and development,” said Burns.

Dr Joerg Au, Chief Engineer – Business Aviation and Engineering Director Rolls-Royce Deutschland, said: “Sustainable aviation fuels are essential for the decarbonisation of the skies, as they have the potential to significantly reduce the carbon emissions of aviation and we have already proved they can be used as a drop-in fuel to power existing engines. This flight test with Gulfstream is another proof point that demonstrates the compatibility of our engines with SAF, bringing us another important step closer to enabling our customers to achieve net zero carbon emissions.”